Archive for November, 2014

Seniors Travel An “All American Road”

“Highway 12 — A Journey Through Time Scenic Byway”, is a state highway designated an All-American Road located in Garfield County and Wayne County, Utah. Senior travelers, Highway 12 is one of the Top 10 most scenic routes in the country.

Nestled between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks, Scenic Byway 12 is said to be located in one of the most beautiful places on earth. How is the word scenic best described? “Scenic reaches out beyond breathtaking vistas.”

Offshoots of the Burr Trail and Hell’s Backbone Road, along with the many trails and slot canyons, add to the sheer and overwhelming majestic beauty of the entire area.

Senior Bikers and Drivers Enjoy Highway 12

There are many stretches of highways in the US that senior folks who travel lots like to enjoy. Route 66 is a perfect example, however Highway 12 stands out above all the others. Be sure to take a look at the Route Guide that is part of the website above along with the Interactive Map.

Highway 12 runs for 122 miles and takes 3 hours to complete. Bryce Canyon National Park is 12 miles east of Hwy 89 and just off Hwy 12. And bikers…Utah’s Hwy 12 was named #6 in Top 10 Biker Roads.

The road starts from the junction with Hwy 89 just south of Panguitch and travels east and north to end 122 miles later at Torrey with the junction at Hwy 24. It passes through the towns of Tropic and Cannonville and gives access to Kodachrome Basin State Park and the Petrified Forest State Park. It links some of the best known highlights in south Utah including Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Capitol Reef National Park.

Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Park are the Book Ends

Del Leu writes in his website Dels Journeys (My 20 Favorite Drives in the U.S.)… “This route, Highway 12, is paved the whole way as it extends across southern Utah and is suitable even for RV’s.”

The Scenic Byway yields a kaleidoscope of color and you will find a national gem at either end: Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks. Route 12 is a showcase of sandstone sculpted by nature, this is no mere transportation route. The sites and pull-offs along the route are just as much “eye-candy” as the two stunning Parks at each end.

The National Scenic Byways Program, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, is a grass-roots collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the United States. Since 1992, the National Scenic Byways Program has provided funding for almost 1500 state and nationally designated byway projects in 48 states, selected for the various archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities.

So point your GPS towards Scenic Byway 12 and enjoy every moment on and off the road. It will remain one of the highlights of your trip to Utah. jeb

Seniors Discover Wenatchee

Wenatchee is located in north-central Washington. The population runs right at 33,000; senior visitors will find Wenatchee Valley College, and apples…tons of them. Wenatchee is known as the “Apple Capital of the World”, thanks to the valley’s many orchards.

The city is also sometimes referred to as the “Buckle of the Power Belt of the Great Northwest”. The “Power Belt of the Great Northwest” is a metaphor for the series of hydroelectric dams on the Columbia River.

The city was named for the nearby Wenatchi Indian tribe. The name means “river which comes from canyons” or “robe of the rainbow”. The Wenatchee National Forest is nearby.

Seniors Find History And Culture in Wenatchee

Archeological digs in nearby East Wenatchee have uncovered Clovis stone and bone tools dating back more than 11,000 years, indicating that people migrating during the last Ice Age spent time in the Wenatchee area. As early as 1811, fur traders from the Northwest Fur Company entered the Wenatchee valley to trap and trade with the Indians.

And culture… Wenatchee is home to many performing arts groups including the Performing Arts Center of Wenatchee, the Wenatchee Valley Symphony, Wenatchee Big Band, Columbia Chorale, Wenatchee Valley Appleaires and The Apollo Club, to name a few.

Fine artists gather and share their work in shows and among one another. Music Theater of Wenatchee and Mission Creek Players present quality theatrical productions and musicals. Wineries, cider makers and brewers are very busy during the fall months.

Senior Visitors Find Photographer’s Paradise

Senior visitors will keep busy around Wenatchee all year long. The Ohme Gardens are a major draw for tourists. “The grounds are quiet, restful, and not dependent on formal floral displays…. Breathtaking views of the Columbia River Valley below can be seen through cedar and fir trees, now more than 70 years old.”

It is said to be a photographer’s paradise.” Peshastin Pinnacles offer world-class rock climbing just a short trip outside of downtown Wenatchee. Lake Wenatchee State Park is one of Washington’s undiscovered beauties and Saddle Rock overlooks the beautiful city of Wenatchee.

The Christmas Lighting Festival is fun time for senior visitors. However, the premier festival in the Pacific Northwest in Wenatchee, the Apple Blossom Festival, draws over 100,000 visitors during the 11-day event. Food fair, Arts & Crafts Fair, Carnival, Youth Parade, Youth Day, Grand Parade, Daily Music & Entertainment…it’s truly the BEST Festival in the Northwest.

Seniors Enjoy “The Branch”

We are off to visit what the locals call “The Branch”, Farmers Branch, Texas. Seniors discover that Farmers Branch, with a population of just under 30,000, is an oasis of small-town life in the heart of big-city bustle.

Over the years Farmers Branch has come to be known as “The City in a Park” with fifteen parks, three golf courses, seventeen tennis courts, three youth centers, two indoor theaters, and a swimming pool.

Twelve miles north of downtown Dallas, Farmers Branch is the oldest settlement in Dallas County, a community steeped in Texas heritage with very deep roots. The local Historical Park is one of the best-kept secrets in the area where senior visitors can take a walk back in time and wander amongst the array of historical buildings and colorful gardens.

Senior Visitors Find More Than A Branch

Farmers Branch was settled in 1842 by Thomas Keenan and his wife, Sarah. The area was called Mustang, but later changed to Farmers Branch due to the rich soil and flourishing crops in Dallas County.

Between 1845 and 1850, it was the best-known of all of the Texas settlements. The community is credited with many of Dallas County’s firsts, including the area’s first church, school and blacksmith shop.

Farmers Branch is more than a branch with 3,500 companies in town and over 250 corporate headquarters, including 60 Fortune 500 companies.

Senior visitors will enjoy Farmers Branch Historical Park with its historic houses, a museum store, picnic area, and two large meadows. A one-room schoolhouse is one of its many attractions, as well as a three log structures, and a beautiful late-19th-century Queen Anne Victorian Cottage.

Seniors Enjoy A City On The Move

“The city is ‘on the move’ and is creating a new downtown – a special place that will be uniquely Farmers Branch – a place that will be a highly desirable neighborhood in which to live, work and play.”

When you are in the Dallas area, stop in Farmers Branch and see for yourself this city on the move. Seniors will discover that Farmers Branch hosts dozens of events every year… Date Night, Independence Day Celebration, Bloomin’ Bluegrass, Halloween in The Park, and the Christmas Tour of Lights.

Seniors Find Basalt Full of Fish and Fun

Senior travelers will find Basalt, with a population of 4,000, right in the Heart of Roaring Fork Valley on the western slope of the Rockies. The area is a year-round vacation destination for anglers and adventure-sports lovers.

Incorporated in 1901, the town was named for the basaltic rock formation on Basalt Mountain, and years ago began as a railroad town. Today Basalt maintains that “small town feeling” that attracts senior tourists.

The Roaring Fork Valley is one of the most affluent regions in Colorado as well as one of the most populous and economically vital areas of the Colorado Western Slope. The Valley is defined by the Roaring Folk River and its tributaries, including the Crystal and Fryingpan River.

The Fryingpan River, particularly the section below the Ruedi Reservoir dam, produces trout as big as 10 pounds. Significant elevation changes in the course of the Roaring Fork River create the rapids that give the river its name.

Seniors: Trout Fishing and Mountain Biking

The Taylor Creek Fly Shop can fix you up with supplies and advice for a success venture. You will find many different and varied fishing options within a short drive from their store.

Basalt is a hub for mountain biking in the Roaring Fork valley. There are a dozen world class cross country trails as well as lift-accessed down hilling within 15 miles of Basalt, both up and down the valley.

Originally the valley was inhabited by the Ute people prior to the arrival of the first U.S. settlers over Independence Pass in 1879. Historically a boom-bust economy rocked by an erratic mining industry, contemporary Basalt flourishes in a solid real estate market and strong business environment.

The local Chamber of Commerce notes that…“Surrounded by wilderness, Basalt sits at the gate of the Frying Pan Valley along the Gold Medal waters of the Roaring Fork and Frying Pan Rivers in the White River National Forest at an elevation of 6,610 feet.”

White River National Forest Draws Senior Visitors

The 2.3 million acre White River National Forest offers vast wilderness for remote hiking and camping and developed areas near resorts. Seven campgrounds in the Basalt area have wooded sites near the river and the Ruedi Reservoir, and hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails run through the forest.

Basalt is loaded with Victorian buildings. Read all about the early history and in particular the Basalt Kilns that date back to the early 1880’s. The kilns stand approximately 25 feet tall and 25 feet in diameter. They are constructed of unfired brick and native stone.

Basalt is not all that far from Aspen (16 miles) and Glenwood Springs on Interstate 40, a major highway through the Rocky Mountains. Seniors, put Basalt on your list…it’s on our’s. jeb

Seniors Take A Holiday In Negril

My nephew and his family recently returned from spending a holiday in Jamaica, the third largest island in the Caribbean and home to over 2.6 million people.

This beautiful island is home to the Blue Mountain range, is surrounded by a narrow coastal plain with most major towns located on the coast.

I am not sure where they vacationed, but I did learn that a hot tourism spot in Jamaica is called Negril population 7000+.

On the island, very little compares to a long, lazy day, soaking up the sun on Negril beaches, except for putting on your evening wear and feeling the real Bob Marley reggae beat of Jamaica at several top nighttime spots.

Senior visitors will find Negril at the western-most tip of Jamaica.

For you equine lovers, explore the island on horseback, where you’ll see some of the most breath-taking scenery in the world. Then, get ready for fun-filled nights out on the island, fueled by delicious local food along with the island’s famous Red Stripe beer.

For years, Negril’s famed 7 Mile Beach has been rated as one of the top 10 beaches in the world by many travel magazines.

Senior travelers will find the large all-inclusive resorts at the north end of the beach, and to the south, the smaller, family-run hotels. This combination provides the Negril area a large variety of rooms, services and prices.

Seniors Soak Up The Sun On The White Sand Beaches

Negril is famous for its miles of cool, white sand beaches. It is one of the most beautiful areas in Jamaica with its laid back atmosphere. Senior visitors who stay at a hotel on the beach are literally on the beach when you walk out of the beachside of your hotel.

South of the main Negril beach area is West End Road, known as the “cliffs”, which is lined with resorts that offer more privacy.

These areas offer easy access to waters good for snorkeling and diving, and if you are so inclined…jumping points into the aqua water reaching more than 40 feet (12 m) high.

Rick’s Cafe is a great place to watch cliff jumpers. Gorgeous sunsets are not limited to Rick’s Cafe – from most locations in Negril, the evening view to the west is unparalleled.

Getting around Negril is easy. Negril is separated into the West End (cliffs) or Beach (Norman Manley Boulevard) where senior visitors will find restaurants and hotels.

The wide variety of attractions in Negril offers visitors a view of spectacular waterfalls, an experience of the islands cultural heritage at a former slave plantation, exploration of the amazingly beautiful forest of the Great Morass, a boat ride on the Black River where you can see the endangered American crocodile.

So put Negril on your travel bucket list. It will be a great holiday. jeb

Seniors Take In Bensalem

This senior chose Bensalem because it was named one of America’s 50 Best Small Cities. Furthermore, I selected the town because it rated #46 out of 50 and I like those kinds of small towns. I know small towns… mine had a population of 300.

Bensalem has 60,512 inhabitants and is known for its strong Jewish community. Bensalem seems to be a perfect place to visit to avoid the hustle, bustle and high prices of the city.

There have been many discussions and controversies about the derivation of the name “Bensalem”. As far back as 1692 a portion of the name “Salem” appeared in provincial records in connection with surveys and grants of land and some time between that year and 1701 the prefix “Ben” was added.

There have also been discussions about the meaning of the name. One historian suggested that the name meant “hill of peace” or “peaceful mount”, while others maintained that it meant “son of peace”, so, take your pick.

Seniors Find Themselves In Covered Bridges

Mayor Joseph DiGirolamo and Bensalem Council would like to welcome you to Bensalem Township. Incorporated in 1692, this thriving suburban community is just outside Philadelphia. Bensalem Township, an area of 21 square miles, is the buffer township between Philadelphia on the West and the rest of Bucks County on the East and Northeast.

Through Bensalem pass four of the most important arteries of transportation in the United States—- Interstate 95, U.S. Route 13 (Bristol Pike), U.S. Route 1 (Lincoln Highway) and the Eastern Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

Bensalem is home to the headquarters of Charming Shoppes, a Fortune 1000 company. The region features numerous historic buildings, notable covered bridges and picturesque scenery.

Seniors Enjoy Historical Area

TripAdvisor includes the Saint Katharine Drexel Mission Center and Shrine and Pistol People, an organization dedicated to teaching families and professionals the safe and practical uses of firearms.

The Bucks County Visitor Center serves as a gateway for all senior visitors. The Historical Society of Bensalem Township, founded and incorporated in 1977, is a great place to read up on the local history.

The Society has acquired many interesting and valuable items including old cemetery records, a variety of ancient maps, more than 50 land deeds, local genealogies, photographs, slides and a host of other historical and significant items.

Parx Casino is located in Bensalem for those of you who care to play a few games. There is Neshaminy State Park, located along the Delaware River.

Senior travelers, when you drive across Pennsylvania, make a stop in Bensalem and enjoy another of America’s Best Small Cities. jeb

Seniors Stop In Gallup

This senior always enjoys driving through the Gallup, New Mexico area with all the beautiful red rocks and interesting terrain. This city on Hwy I-40 lies 139 miles west of Albuquerque and 25 miles east of the Arizona border.

Route 66 and many Indian reservations are the major attractions for senior travelers who are attracted to the area. I always enjoy driving through the area with all the beautiful red rocks and interesting terrain.

The city was founded in 1881 and was named after David Gallup, a paymaster for the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad.

Indian Capital of the World

Gallup is often known as the “Heart of Indian Country” and sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World”, for its location in the heart of Native American lands, and the presence of Navajo, Zuni, Hopi and other tribes.

One-third of the city’s population has Native American roots. Gallup’s nickname references the huge impact of the Native American cultures found in and around Gallup. There are many American peoples in the Gallup/Four Corners region.

By far the most numerous are the Navajo, who are today widely regarded for their achievements in wool, with original Navajo rugs and blankets (both new and antique) sought by private collectors and museums throughout the world.

Seniors Attend Inter-Tribal Ceremonial

Every August Gallup plays host to Native Americans from across the United States in a massive Inter-tribal ceremonial, The 90th Annual Inter-Tribal Ceremonial in Gallup.

People come from all over the world for this spectacular event, and whether you’re eight…or eighty, it’s an experience senior visitors will not forget.

Here is one colorful site with tons of information on the city. Gallup is a fantastic place to begin your New Mexico adventure. Whether your interests lie in culture, history, sports and outdoor activities, shopping, or exploring the beauty of the Southwest, you’ll find that Gallup has it.

Trading companies seem to congregate in Gallup. Windfield is a “biggie” and note the beautiful gold and turquoise neckwear on the site. Squash blossom necklaces are always a good buy. And don’t miss the Red Rock Balloon Rally.

I’ll leave you today and hope to see you in Gallup. Seems like there is always more to learn about an area or a city wherever you travel in the world. Seniors, enjoy your stay in Indian country.jeb

Seniors Enjoy The Dinoflagellates In Bioluminescent Waters

That title is a mouthful but it is all true. Seniors are invited to visit Jamaica’s fascinating Luminous Lagoon on a night cruise near Montego Bay. Cruise around the glowing lagoon in a small boat at night with your expert guide and go for a dip in the colorful water.

This is a must-see attraction in Jamaica that is perfect for folks of all ages. The water is filled with phosphorous which allows it to illuminate so brilliantly when disturbed. The bioluminescent green glow is caused by the presence of a micro organism called pryodinium bahamene – a type of dinoflagellate.

If you are an adventurous senior, take a swim in the glistening waters, one of only a few dips like it in the world. Don’t worry, the lagoon’s eerie-looking water is actually completely harmless. The natural glow is unique.

One visitor writes “Thousands of microscopic aquatic creatures glow from any movement of the water, by the boat, your hands or if you are a daring type, from the movement of your body as you swim with them.

Seniors Experience Magical Waters

“It reminded me of a scene from the movie “The Abyss”. Another says… “It is quite magical when you get in the water and it glistens and glows like twinkling stars. The muck that you are standing in is a little creepy but there are showers available when you get back to shore.”

Whether you wish to get in the water or watch from the safety of the boat, it is definitely recommended that you pay the dinoflagellates a visit.

The place is MAGICAL! Glistening Waters is a glowing lagoon on the north coast of Jamaica. This marvel is only found in few places in the world, however, this lagoon is the brightest of them all due to more consistent climate. The fresh water from the Martha Brae River meets the salt-water ocean and a totally amazing creation is formed.

Luminous Lagoon Lights Up

The Luminous Lagoon lights up with a turquoise glow… it is Jamaica’s only nighttime major attraction. Located on the outskirts of Montego Bay, senior visitors can personally witness magic take place right before your eyes as you enjoy a quiet boat ride through the dark marina.

Historical stories of nearby Falmouth are told by the Captain as the illuminating outlines of the fish light up around the boat. Guests are also offered a swim in the water so they can see their own bodies radiate a turquoise glow. Following the tour of the lagoon, enjoy a dinner at the Glistening Waters Restaurant, which overlooks the marina.

Senior travelers, come and see for yourself one of the unique features of the world’s waters. Enjoy. jeb

Seniors Enjoy Vacation Paradise

Senior travelers will find Cedar City, Utah 250 miles south of Salt Lake City on Interstate 15. Cedar City’s 29,000 residents live amongst some of the most breath taking scenery anywhere.

There is a ton of history in and around Cedar City and its Historic District contains one hundred and seventy-two buildings that have survived to this day. Cedar City was originally an iron works town near the Mormon city of Parawan.

After Brigham Young shut down the iron facilities, two-thirds of Cedar City’s residents left for other settlements. The remaining families prospered from sheep ranching.

The Cedar City Shakespeare Festival draws senior visitors. William Shakespeare would find himself at home in Cedar City, Utah, home of Utah’s extravagant annual, summer Shakespearean Festival. Senior visitors also enjoy touring scenic Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Cedar Breaks resembles a miniature Bryce Canyon. Many say that its magnificent colors may even surpass Bryce. The Indians called Cedar Breaks the “Circle of Painted Cliffs.” Situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks is shaped like a giant coliseum dropping 2,000 feet to its floor.

Senior Mountain Bikers, Take Note

Bikers come to experience excellent mountain biking at Brian Head. In the winter, Brian Head transforms into one of Utah’s great ski resorts, with excellent powder and runs, receiving over 400 inches of Utah powder annually. Southern Utah University adds an additional, exciting dimension to this vibrant community.

TripAdvisor notes that this “charming and compact” city offers visitors a great home base for exploring the area. Golf, skiing, biking and other outdoor recreational activities abound.

Called the “Festival City” due to the incredible theatrical and cultural offerings, Cedar City plays host to a number of prestigious film, theater and art festivals throughout the year, making anytime a great time to visit.

Hiking trails are found in all directions from Cedar City. Senior visitors will discover a unique small city complete with world-renowned theatricals, astounding beauty, and unbelievable outdoor recreation.

The Arts And The Rodeo Draw Senior Visitors

The Frontier Homestead State Park Museum is open year-round in the heart of Cedar City. The Heritage Center presents an assortment of plays, symphonies, ballets, art shows and a multitude of cultural events and entertainment.

Many tourists come for the Cedar City Rodeo that takes place each June. A full contingent of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association events include Bareback, Steer Wrestling, Tie Down Roping, Saddlebronc, Team Roping, Barrel Racing and Bull Riding each performance.

Iron Mission State Park provides visitors with more information on Cedar City’s history and boasts a large collection of horse-drawn wagons. Additional Cedar City landmarks include the Old Rock Church next to the city offices and the former Union Pacific Depot building, which is now a fine dining restaurant.

Senior travelers, when you are in Utah, put Cedar City on your itinerary. jeb

Seniors Love The Waters in Hot Springs

I inquired as to the “Best Sites to Visit in the state of Wyoming” and up jumped Hot Springs State Park. Seniors will find the park is situated in East Thermopolis, right next to the scenic shores of the Bighorn River.

The Park is most famous for its hot springs, including the largest natural mineral spring in the world. With a temperature of 135 degrees, the water is used for its healing benefits as well as a spectacular natural wonder.

Senior visitors can enjoy the outdoor pools, the splendid views to the park, then, make a tour of the city of Thermopolis. The town is small and quiet, but is dotted by numerous shops and a variety of restaurants. The Park is easy to find in Thermopolis, just off the main road, US 20, on the north side of town.

Seniors Enjoy Western Hospitality

Thermopolis is a unique and remarkable corner of the world where senior visitors will be greeted with genuine western cowboy hospitality and great respect.

For wildlife lovers, photographers, and explorers, there is a world to discover in Thermopolis. A state maintained Buffalo heard roams the hills just northeast of town on the upper range land of the State Park. Legend Rock is filled with petroglyphs.

Take the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway between the ancient rock cliffs of Wind River Canyon, the same path once used by Native Americans, explorers, and pioneers. Senior visitors will discover lots of things to see and do in and around Themopolis starting with the Wyoming Dinosaur Museum, that is world-class and includes early life fossils, dioramas, and full-size dinosaur skeletons.

Have you ever soaked in a hot water spa? They are terrific. Over colorful terraces along the Big Horn River, water flows from mineral hot springs… over 18,000 gallons every 24 hours at a constant temperature of 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

The mineralized hot springs at Thermopolis form the main feature in the oldest state park in Wyoming, created 1897. The springs have created a beautiful terrace of white, yellow and brown travertine, on the banks of the Big Horn River.

The park has a free Bath House where the water is maintained at 104 degrees for therapeutic bathing. That will open up your pores for sure. Either before your soak or after, walk over the board walks through the park which displays various thermal pools, the “biggie” is Star Plunge.

Take the plunge in Thermopolis. It will prove to be a memorable event. jeb